Performance Summary

With CPU waterblocks, both thermal performance and liquid-flow restriction are important metrics. Unlike radiators where component liquid-flow restriction is not as big a factor in the loop's overall flow rate, CPU block choice will impact average flow rate significantly, and thus cannot be ignored. In order to quantify relative performance for a CPU block, a normalized percentage-based data set was created, with 70% weighting given to thermal performance and 30% weighting given to liquid-flow restriction. The data set created was then plotted, with the subject of this review at 100%.


Let's clarify that the metric for a quantitative performance summary is based on my own thoughts, as there is no universally accepted standard. As it stands, the relatively average flow restriction ends up being a larger factor than the relatively better thermal performance to where the Bykski CPU-FIRE-ON-I ends up falling in the middle of the pack in this extremely tight list.

Performance per Dollar

Prices are taken from the manufacturer's web shop for customers in the USA when available, with all numbers reported in USD. For products not available there, the most obvious retail source is chosen, such as from a major distributor carrying the various brands. For products no longer available, the last available reasonable price point is considered.


We must note right away that aesthetics and build quality do not necessarily translate directly here, especially with intricate metal tops, RGB lighting, and integrated displays that add to the cost, but are not all quantifiable as a performance metric. This is where we see the CPU-FIRE-ON-I clearly being more expensive than the other Bykski block and far more in line with the other entries, although it's still offering more value than most even when you consider the part where the display and LEDs are extras that people will be opting for.